
Do you want to produce the best espresso drinks in your house or business? Then you should get acquainted with the greatest espresso tamper on the market. While many other elements influence the quality of these drinks, such as water hardness and the roast date of the coffee beans, the tamper is critical to brewing the ideal espresso for a latte or cappuccino.
It may seem that any espresso tamper on the market would suffice, but the fact is that some are significantly superior than others. Rather than allowing you to browse through hundreds of variations, we’ve taken the effort to identify the top 12 espresso tampers and explain why they’re so popular. We’ll also discuss why an espresso tamper is necessary and how to choose the best one for your requirements.
Best Pick
The BlueSnail Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper is ideal for tamping down freshly ground coffee beans before producing delicious espresso. It is made of stainless steel and has a 51mm base to give the greatest results possible.
Budget Pick
Another excellent option is the RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper, which is composed of cast alloy to avoid coffee bean corrosion. It offers a dual-sided design with 51mm and 58mm tampers to choose from, depending on your requirements.
Contents
- Quick Comparison: 12 Top Espresso Tampers
- 1. BlueSnail Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
- 2. RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper
- 3. HIC Dual Sided Espresso Tamper
- 4. Apexstone Coffee Tamper
- 5. LuxHaus Calibrated Pressure Tamper for Coffee and Espresso
- 6. Benicci Espresso Coffee Tamper
- 7. De’Longhi DLSC058 Coffee Tamper
- 8. Omgogo Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
- 9. Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
- 10. Espro 3058F Calibrated Flat Tamper
- 11. FEENM Calibrated Coffee Tamper
- 12. Zoie + Chloe Stainless Steel Espresso Coffee Tamper
- Why a Tamper is Essential for Making Espresso Beverages
- Top Features to Be Aware of When Buying the Best Espresso Tamper
- Selecting the Right Size for Your Espresso Tamper
- Choosing an Espresso Tamper with an Ideal Weight
- Deciding the Appropriate Materials for Your New Espresso Tamper
- The Decision to Choose a Traditional or Calibrated Espresso Tamper
- Selecting Between a Convex or Flat Tamper for Making Espresso Beverages
- Taking a Look at Different Handles Used on Espresso Tampers
- Don’t Forget to Take Your Budget into Account with Your Espresso Tamper
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- How do I choose a good coffee tamper?
- What is the best weight for a coffee tamper?
- What is the most expensive coffee tamper?
- Does a good tamper make a difference?
- How many times should you tamp coffee?
- Can you tamp coffee too hard?
- What size tamper is best?
- What is a good tamper?
- What is the most common coffee tamper size?
Quick Comparison: 12 Top Espresso Tampers
Product Name | Grade |
---|---|
BlueSnail Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper | A+ |
RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper | A |
HIC Dual Sided Espresso Tamper | A- |
Apexstone Coffee Tamper | B+ |
LuxHaus Calibrated Pressure Tamper for Coffee and Espresso | A |
Benicci Espresso Coffee Tamper | A- |
De’Longhi DLSC058 Coffee Tamper | A |
Omgogo Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper | B+ |
Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper | A- |
Espro 3058F Calibrated Flat Tamper | B+ |
FEENM Calibrated Coffee Tamper | A |
Zoie + Chloe Stainless Steel Espresso Coffee Tamper | A- |
1. BlueSnail Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- It is reasonably priced and will not break the bank.
- A compact 51mm size is ideal for anybody who has a small machine that requires a little tamper.
- It has an exquisite appearance and elegance that will complement any home kitchen or coffee business.
For those who do not want to spend more for a calibrated model, the BlueSnail Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper has a stainless steel-clad body. It has two parts: the head and the handle, which screw together for quick cleaning after tamping a lot of espresso. It weighs little over a pound, which many people think to be the ideal weight for creating a wonderful latte or macchiato.
This is great for tamping any kind of fresh grinds to make a rich and fragrant cup of espresso at home or in the office. However, since it is not a completely solid body, individuals who are clumsy may find it difficult to use. Those looking for a good espresso tamper at a reasonable price, on the other hand, will find this to be a terrific addition to their kitchen.
2. RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper
Highlighted Features
- It has an easy-to-clean design for handwashing with only soap and water.
- Cast alloy with no corrosion-prevention coatings
- It may also be used to press pastry dough into baking pans or to make sliders.
When it comes to a low-cost tamper that can withstand a lot of usage, the RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper is hard to beat. The tamper’s two flat ends are 51mm and 58mm, respectively, allowing it to be used with both small and big espresso machines.
Some may find the weight of this tamper to be a little light at 4 ounces, but others won’t mind applying a little extra pressure to compensate. It’s also extremely tiny, with measurements of 2.75 x 2.75 x 2.75, so storage will never be a problem. While the high quality and low price of this tamper make it an excellent option for everyone, it is particularly appropriate for novices.
3. HIC Dual Sided Espresso Tamper
Highlighted Features
- Made of heavy-duty metal to withstand the acids found in coffee.
- Weighs just four ounces and measures less than three inches on all sides for easy storage.
- It has a sturdy structure and can be simply handwashed with soap and water.
Another variant with two sizes, one on each end of the instrument, is the HIC Dual Sided Espresso Tamper. In this example, one end is 50mm and the other is 55mm, thus it fits differently from the last dual-sided tamper we looked at. It is simple to put coffee grinds into a puck and use it to produce wonderful espresso drinks.
This espresso tamper is a great match for the Mr. Coffee espresso machine, but it’s also the perfect size for a variety of other standard machines on the market. It will guarantee that the flavor is powerful and consistent throughout whether you’re creating espresso shots, cappuccinos, or another espresso drink. It also creates a space between the grounds and the machine, preventing them from swelling and clogging.
4. Apexstone Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- It has an ergonomic design that fits nicely in the hand.
- Provides an attractive all-metal appearance that highlights the high quality of the construction.
- It weighs little more than one pound and is compact for safe storage.
This Apexstone coffee tamper has a sturdy design made of iron with a chrome finish. It is compatible with any machine that needs a 51mm portafilter to tamp down grinds and generate a puck in order to prepare the greatest espresso beverages possible. It’s also quite affordable and won’t break the bank, especially for those on a tighter budget.
One of the features that make this an excellent tamper is that it is anti-rust and corrosion-free, which means it will not cause problems if it comes into touch with water. It boasts a sturdy structure and an appealing appearance. This is great for any novice who wants to begin brewing espresso without spending too much money.
5. LuxHaus Calibrated Pressure Tamper for Coffee and Espresso
Highlighted Features
- Available in two sizes to match a wide range of well-known espresso machines.
- Flaking, corrosion, and other concerns are avoided by utilizing food-grade stainless steel.
- When not in use, the tamper is protected and stored in a red velvet bag.
This LuxHaus Calibrated Pressure Tamper for Coffee and Espresso is the first calibration tamper on our list, making it a perfect choice for those who are new to making espresso. When you push down at 30 pounds of pressure, it creates a clicking sound, indicating that your espresso is ready to brew.
This model’s handle is not composed of metal, therefore it provides a nice grip that many people prefer over typical metal handles. However, you must ensure that the tamper will suit your espresso machine, since it is only available in 49mm and 51mm sizes.
6. Benicci Espresso Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- Fits all 58mm espresso machine portafilters, including high-end brands such as Breville.
- To avoid corrosion, the coffee tamper is made entirely of food-grade stainless steel.
- It has a convex form and is heavy, making it simple to apply proper pressure.
Because this Benicci Espresso Coffee Tamper weighs 1.4 pounds, it doesn’t take much pressure to tamp your fresh coffee grinds into a puck for a cappuccino or latte. It’s a strong tamper that won’t shatter like ultra lightweight ones, but it can also pack a punch if it falls on a finger or toe, so use it with caution. It is intended for both serious home espresso makers and commercial usage.
If you want a non-calibrated tamper because you want a single piece tamper, this is a good option that will meet your needs. It’s a little more pricey than other models, but with all it has to offer, it seems to be worth every cent. However, this is better suitable for expert baristas than for novices.
7. De’Longhi DLSC058 Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- It is 51mm in diameter and fits many of the smallest pump espresso machines on the market.
- It has a strong stainless steel base and a natural wood handle for comfort.
- Weighs just 10 ounces and is 2.01 x 2.01 x 3.58 inches in dimension.
This DeLonghi DLSC058 Coffee Tamper is yet another calibrated model that makes tamping down espresso to the appropriate level a breeze. If you’re upgrading from a cast-metal tamper, you’ll notice that the multiple materials make this model feel much more durable in your hand while also looking fantastic on display. While you may imagine this tamper to be expensive, it is reasonably priced and will fit into almost any budget.
The flat bottom of this tamper ensures even distribution of coffee grinds throughout your portafilter. If you use a basic plastic model that came with your espresso machine, you will notice a more smoother functioning and a superior flavor in every cup.
8. Omgogo Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- Available in a number of diameters ranging from 49mm to 58mm to accommodate a variety of espresso machines.
- It has a lovely dual-material design and one of the lowest costs on the list.
- The handle is pleasant and ergonomic, making it simple to move and use for tamping.
The lovely rosewood handle is the first thing most people will notice about the Omgogo Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper. It attaches to a food-grade stainless steel base that is completely safe for use with espresso or other consumable items.
This is a high-quality option that will suit individuals who dislike cold, harsh stainless steel handles. It feels better in the hand and ensures you brew the finest espresso your machine is capable of producing. The only major concern is that since it lacks a unibody build, it may break apart when dropped, so use caution while using it.
9. Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- 51mm in diameter and 1.25 pounds in weight for smaller espresso machines
- At an affordable price, it has stainless steel and inside iron to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Can be washed simply with water and soap by hand
Those with modest espresso machines may appreciate the Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper. It has a wonderful, heavy weight to it, so you won’t have to use much pressure to tamp down the coffee grinds you’re using to create espresso. It is an excellent option for everybody, from a beginner at home to an expert in a store.
This tamper’s design allows it to be utilized for other culinary duties as well, such as pushing down pie crust before adding filling. However, this is not a unibody tamper, which some may consider a drawback of an otherwise useful espresso tamper. Otherwise, it’s a great tamper that will make making lattes simpler and more straightforward than ever.
10. Espro 3058F Calibrated Flat Tamper
Highlighted Features
- Available in a range of sizes for various machines, including 53mm, 57mm, and 58mm.
- It comes with a black or red handle so you can match it to your kitchen.
- The flat bottom of all espresso tampers makes them suited for flat bottom espresso baskets.
Regardless of the size of your espresso machine, the Espro 3058F Calibrated Flat Tamper is sure to fit it. Because this is a calibrated model, when you reach 30 pounds of pressure, it emits a little click without disturbing the ground coffee and producing problems. This additional help will be appreciated by those who desire the most consistent coffee grounds for lattes and cappuccinos.
This culinary equipment is praised for its dependability and robustness, as well as its simple design. It costs a little more than standard tampers, but that’s acceptable given its improved functionality. It also weighs a perfect one pound and is tiny enough to put in a drawer when not in use.
11. FEENM Calibrated Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- Provides a heavy-duty operation that is long-lasting and will continue for years after purchase.
- Ideal for both newbies to espresso-making and seasoned professionals.
- With a 58mm diameter, it is compatible with the majority of popular espresso machines on the market.
This FEENM Calibrated Coffee Tamper is ideal for continuous usage in a professional coffee business where all of the espresso must have the same consistency. Because it is a calibrated model, it will notify you with a little click when you have reached the sweet spot. It has enough force to condense ground coffee into a thick layer for the greatest flavor.
This coffee tamper is composed of #304 stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and rusting and will endure for a long time. The handle is very comfy and ergonomic, however it is made of plastic, so you must exercise caution while using it. For your piece of mind, all of the materials utilized in the construction are food safe.
12. Zoie + Chloe Stainless Steel Espresso Coffee Tamper
Highlighted Features
- Designed to be user-friendly, especially for people who are new to creating espresso-based beverages.
- Allows for easy cleaning with soap and water or wiping down with a cloth.
- It has a 49mm base and will suit many of the most popular compact espresso machines.
This is a fun espresso coffee tamper by Zoie + Chloe that comes in a number of vibrant hues including red, blue, and rose gold. It is ideal for a home kitchen but can also withstand the rigors of a professional caf that requires a large number of espresso drinks per day. It’s composed of excellent stainless steel and has a touch of heft without being too weighty.
Unfortunately, this espresso tamper is only available in one size. It also includes a screw-off handle, thus it is not a single-piece type, which some baristas prefer. Otherwise, if it fits your espresso machine, this may be a great addition to your kitchen tool collection.
Why a Tamper is Essential for Making Espresso Beverages
When selecting an espresso tamper, consider everything from the size to the materials used in manufacturing, and even the form of the instrument you’ll use to push down on freshly ground coffee beans. However, before we get into it, you may be asking why a coffee tamper is so important and why you should have one in your house, cafe, or business.
One of the things that people like about espresso is how rich and flavorful it is when compared to a conventional cup of drip coffee. To get the particular taste, however, the coffee grinds used in an espresso machine must be packed in firmly adjacent to one other. It is critical to prevent pockets of air from accessing the beans, which is exactly what a tamper is meant to achieve.
The same is true when utilizing the tamper. If the grounds are not uniformly tamped down to eliminate all of the air, the espresso shot you make will lack the desired flavor. If you rush the tamping process, you may end up with parts that are less squeezed than others, resulting in a shot that isn’t as sweet as it may be.
When the espresso machine rushes water through the grounds, it will search for places containing air, which means it will not cover the grounds as thoroughly as it should in order to extract all of the flavors from inside them. You will enjoy better espresso drinks than ever before when you use a tamper to produce a puck of coffee and drop it into the portafilter.
Top Features to Be Aware of When Buying the Best Espresso Tamper
Now that you understand why an espresso tamper is such an important element of creating espresso beverages, let’s look at the many qualities that distinguish one tamper from the next. We’ll look at everything from the size of tampers to the materials they’re constructed of and how much they weigh to help you make the best purchasing option for your unique requirements.
Selecting the Right Size for Your Espresso Tamper
The majority of the time, espresso tampers are measured in millimeters. Tampers exist in a variety of sizes, but the majority of those on the market will be between 48mm and 58mm. So, how do you decide which tamper size is best for your requirements?
The ideal tamper to use is one that is the same size as the basket on your espresso machine. Because this might vary greatly, it is critical to ensure that the tamper you purchase is compatible before purchasing it.
It is often as simple as checking for the manufacturer’s name or specs on the tamper. However, it may be more challenging at other times. If you are unsure about the size of your personal espresso machine’s basket, now is the time to get out your manual and check what it says.
Those who do not have a handbook or are having difficulty locating one may often locate this information online. Look up your espresso machine model and the phrase manual to see what comes up. Regardless of how you get this information, it is critical to have since the incorrect size tamper will just not function.
Choosing an Espresso Tamper with an Ideal Weight
It’s difficult to say what weight is optimum for your espresso machine, but one thing is certain: you need to apply roughly 30 pounds of pressure to the beans to tamp them down effectively. Some individuals like a one-pound tamper, while others prefer lighter or heavier choices.
Choose a heavier weight tamper if you want the most basic alternative. To prepare caffeinated drinks, you will need to apply less pressure to push the beans together into a puck. This is one of the reasons why experts recommend avoiding plastic tampers in favor of those made of stainless steel, which is a more solid material.
Deciding the Appropriate Materials for Your New Espresso Tamper
As previously stated, stainless steel is often preferred for espresso tampers. This is due to the fact that it is quite weighty, but it is not the only reason. Any tamper with robust materials will do; it just so happens that stainless steel is the most widely accessible and typically comes at a fair price.
Furthermore, stainless steel will not react with your coffee beans to produce an unpleasant flavor, and it is noted for being simple and quick to clean. While various materials may be utilized, make sure the tamper has several of these features so that you can use it on a daily basis.
The Decision to Choose a Traditional or Calibrated Espresso Tamper
There are advantages and disadvantages to using a solid tamper, just as there are to using a calibrated tamper. A good tamper is frequently preferred by baristas who have been in the profession for a long time and have a lot of expertise tamping espresso. A calibrated tamper, on the other hand, guarantees that you properly tamp the coffee down to achieve the greatest possible flavor.
Calibrated variants, on the other hand, have a separate base and handle that connect and produce a noise when you reach 30 pounds of pressure. This eliminates any guesswork in your tamping and assures the optimum taste for every drink you create. These are suitable for most individuals who are new to espresso-making, although they are more costly than other types.
Selecting Between a Convex or Flat Tamper for Making Espresso Beverages
Another difference amongst tampers is that some have a perfectly flat bottom while others have a little bend around the edges. This is done to prevent water from entering the portafilter, which might result in a shot that tastes worse than desired. However, both may provide a delicious shot; it is just a question of choice and which works best for your purposes.
A more expert espresso maker will discover that a flat tamper produces the same results as a convex one. However, novices may like the added simplicity that the rounded tamper provides. Consider your ability level before making a purchasing choice.
Taking a Look at Different Handles Used on Espresso Tampers
When picking between tampers, check at the handle to verify it is constructed of a robust material that will endure. Some of these tampers are constructed of a single piece of stainless steel, while others may include handles made of plastic, wood, or other materials. You want to know that it will endure and that you will not need another tamper in a few months, particularly if you prepare a lot of espresso beverages every day.
Another thing to consider is if the handle will be comfy. This may be difficult to evaluate online, but many reviews will remark if the handle has a good grip and is simple to use. If you’re changing a tamper and like the way the handle operates, utilize it as a reference for your next one.
Don’t Forget to Take Your Budget into Account with Your Espresso Tamper
While most tampers on the market are fairly priced and in the same price range, you should be sure your budget can manage the decision you select. This will help you determine if you can afford the quality you want with your money or if you should wait to purchase the one you really want.
If one tamper is out of your price range but another is just up your alley, it’s always a good idea to choose longevity and quality above appearances. When you know your budget from the start, you may also look solely at tampers that suit the bill, preventing you from paying more than you anticipated.
Conclusion
Whether you are purchasing your first tamper or replacing a lost or damaged one, selecting the finest espresso tamper within your price range makes a significant impact when preparing drinks. Any of the 12 options mentioned above will suffice, but evaluate your particular preferences before selecting. You’ll soon be producing the most delectable beverages for yourself, your family, or your clients.
FAQs
How do I choose a good coffee tamper?
A nice tamper is made of lightweight metal, and the Portafilter size is appropriate for your tamping. If you have a lot of baskets to handle when working as a barista, you should acquire extra tampers or utilize a convex tamper.
What is the best weight for a coffee tamper?
The Tamper’s Mass
To exert the proper amount of pressure, your tamper should weigh between 1-2 pounds. Tampers made of plastic should be avoided in favor of those made of heavier materials such as stainless steel. Tampers weighing roughly 1 pound seem to be the best, according to skilled baristas.
What is the most expensive coffee tamper?
The Q2 PuqPress…
It costs $1,080, which sets it different from my reliable Pullman Big Step, which costs $165. Which is rather pricey for an equipment used for such a basic purpose. But I never sat down and decided that the tamper needed a revamp or a complete rethink.
Does a good tamper make a difference?
Tamping is an important aspect of achieving that perfect shot of espresso, and a good tamper may help. Tamping too hard may result in a bitter cup, while tamping too lightly might result in a watery shot. There will not be enough resistance in the earth to obstruct the flow of water.
How many times should you tamp coffee?
Tamp two times. For the first tamp, use mild pressure to make a puck shape, and for the second, use greater power and press hard down to erase any visible voids between the grinds.
Can you tamp coffee too hard?
Tamping pressure should not be too high, since this might result in over-extracting and a highly harsh espresso flavor. With a twisting motion, polish the puck. However, avoid twisting as you press down. Otherwise, the coffee will be ruined.
What size tamper is best?
The ideal tamper should be somewhat smaller than the inner diameter of the portafilter basket so that it does not bind when compressing grounds – in other words, there should be some additional space between the tamper and the basket.
What is a good tamper?
Motta’s 7 Best Coffee Tampers – 8140. Amazon has a price check. Check the Price – Buy Coffee.
PUSH. Check the price. 58.5mm is the diameter of the base.
Rhino. Check out the price of Coffee Hit. Check the Price – Buy Coffee.
Leveller and distributor. Check the price.
Dynamometric Tamper is a concept art piece. Check the price.
Coffee Tamper, Navaris. Check the price.
Puqpress. Check the price.
What is the most common coffee tamper size?
Tamper Size Requirements
Tampers of the 58mm size are commonly used with commercial and high-end espresso machines (espresso coffee makers), while lesser sizes include 57mm, 53mm, and 49mm tampers. See Pulling A Perfect Espresso Shot and How to Make Lattes and Cappuccinos for more information on making superb espresso.